However, tasks such as inspections and checks that take place in yards, warehouses, weighbridges, sampling stations, and specifically customs, are usually left to human approvals and are semi-automated.
Even with EDI, or Electronic Data Interchange, the systems behind these processes take time to get validated. This means that even when the container or bulk cargo is unloaded and ready to leave the port, the paper trail behind it does not keep up and adds to the delay. This happens because this paper trail data is slow, fragmented, and manual.
Understanding the EDI trail in port operations
EDI, or Electronic Data Interchange, is the exchange of business information between stakeholders in port operations, including shipping companies, ports, terminal operators, customs, shippers, and freight forwarders.
Before a ship docks at the port, its cargo manifest and pre-arrival notice are sent to the port, which are verified and confirmed by the terminal. Once the cargo is discharged, important paperwork like the bill of lading, customs declaration, etc., is prepared and sent to relevant stakeholders.
Once the cargo is cleared by the port and customs, confirmations such as
